Betty C., 83, recently prepared her own salad using ingredients harvested from The Renaissance of Florence’s beloved community garden.
Each year, an abundance of flowers blooms alongside favorite vegetables like cucumbers, peppers, and tomatoes.
Mary Donna Ott, the senior living community’s Life Enrichment Director, knows how meaningful this slice of paradise is to residents who call The Renaissance home, because she helped found it 26 years ago.
In 1999, she began a modest garden area that was quickly embraced by residents and integrated into their daily routines.
“Our first flowers bloomed in the spring of 2000,” Mary Donna shared. “To see how it has expanded to cover our entire backyard with flowerbeds, statues, a fountain, pond, gazebo, herbs, and vegetables; it’s overwhelming in the best way.”
“What began as a simple idea has grown into something truly meaningful, a cherished part of life at The Renaissance,” she added.
Thrive Every Day in Retirement
At The Renaissance of Florence, retirement is your time to put down roots and watch yourself bloom. Whether tending to our flourishing community garden, enjoying engaging activities, or building meaningful friendships, every day offers opportunities to grow, connect, and find purpose. Schedule a tour to see how life here helps seniors cultivate joy, fulfillment, and a sense of belonging.